A Time of Purification

It’s time to tell a story—a true story. Last June my left knee gave way (again) and surgery was planned to correct the problem. But before that could happen, I found myself in the hospital for a blood infection. I was told about the seriousness of it, and “it” could go either way. Needless to say, I was frightened; but also full of trust that all would be well. After three months of recovery and cleansing my body of the infection, I was scheduled for knee replacement surgery. Another three months of therapy and gaining my strength back.

So what has this to do with T’ai Chi Chih? Everything! For as I lay in the hospital the first time, I became very aware of the flow of energy within and without. I was surrounded by only good energy, kind energy, compassionate energy, loving energy. As my awareness became grounded, I remembered that Justin teaches us that the Chi does itself when we are most relaxed and open to it. And so I focused my energy and imagined the movements since I was unable to do them. It does work. Both from the bed and when I was once more able to be up and about, I would mentally move through all 19 movements, and then do the Six Healing Sounds. And I knew the difference it was working in my whole being.

So, once more, I thank Justin for his teachings, and encourage us all to trust the process.

As autumn changed the sweet gum tree outside my room from green to red and orange and yellow, the following words came to me. Perhaps you will see the connection.

October 4 — Reflection on a sweet gum tree

Show forth brilliant colors.
Shine like a star—a light for others.
Respect each leaf’s uniqueness as you
* recall your seedness, your season of growth.*
Bend with wind, dance gracefully.
Be flexible now and when it is time to let go.

October 31

Straight as an arrow
Reaching high though so small.
Beauty in near nakedness;
wind and will-to-let go.
Stripping branches bare of all but
few red beauties standing proud.
O tree-gift during these weeks of autumn grandeur,
Gratitude flows as the lessons continue
through near wintry days—nights—
Barrenness too is beauty.